Mycelium structure with insert and method

ABSTRACT

A method of making a molded part, including forming a liquid aggregate. A fungal inoculum and the liquid aggregate are inserted into a mold cavity. A portion of an object is inserted into the mold cavity. The fungal inoculum is grown into live mycelium that operably couples with the object. The mycelium is heated to terminate further growth and develop a composite part made of mycelium and the object.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a mycelium structure with aninsert, and more particularly, to a mycelium structure that is moldedaround a mechanical object.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Plastics and plastic foams have been widely used in a multitude ofindustrial and consumer applications. Specifically, urethane plastics,foams and elastomers, as well as other like petroleum-based productshave been used in the automobile industry, for example, for outfittingvehicle interiors. Given the non-biodegradable nature of thesematerials, as well as the limited availability and time-intensiveprocess for renewing these resources, the interest in biodegradable or“green” components has steadily increased. The present invention relatesto a “green” raw material that can be used in the production ofcomposite materials for industries that currently employ petroleum-basedand other like plastics and foams.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention includes a method of making a moldedpart, including forming a liquid aggregate. A fungal inoculum and theliquid aggregate are inserted into a mold cavity. A portion of an objectis inserted into the mold cavity. The fungal inoculum is grown into livemycelium that operably couples with the object. The mycelium is heatedto terminate further growth and develop a composite part made ofmycelium and the object.

Another aspect of the present invention includes a method of making amolded part, wherein a fungal inoculum is applied with an aggregate intoa mold cavity. A portion of an object is inserted into the mold cavity.Live mycelium is grown to fill the mold cavity and operably couple withthe object. The live mycelium is cured to terminate further growth anddevelop a formed component.

Yet another aspect of the present invention includes a vehicle parthaving an object that includes a first coupled portion and a secondexposed portion. A cured mycelium structure is grown over the firstcoupled portion during a growth period to create a physical coupling ofthe mycelium structure to the object.

These and other aspects, objects, and features of the present inventionwill be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art uponstudying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a magnified view of a living mycelium structure;

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a vehicle incorporating severalembodiments of a mycelium component of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method of makinga mycelium component;

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of an injectionmolding device for making a molded mycelium component;

FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of the injection molding device ofFIG. 4 with the second mold cavity separated from the first mold cavity;

FIG. 4B is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a molded myceliumcomponent;

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the molded mycelium component takenat line IVC-IVC;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating another embodiment of a method ofmaking a molded mycelium component;

FIG. 5A is a flow chart of yet another embodiment of a method of makinga molded mycelium component;

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of an injectionmolding device for making a molded composite mycelium component;

FIG. 6A is a top perspective view of the device of FIG. 6 with thesecond mold cavity separated from the first mold cavity;

FIG. 6B is a top perspective view of a composite mycelium component;

FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the molded composite myceliumcomponent taken at line VIC-VIC;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart of yet another embodiment of a method of making amycelium component;

FIG. 8A is a side elevational cross-sectional view of one embodiment ofa molding device for molding mycelium components;

FIG. 8B is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the molding deviceof FIG. 8A with the mold cavities closed;

FIG. 8C is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the molding deviceof FIG. 8A with the mold cavities open;

FIG. 8D is an enlarged view of the area VIIID of FIG. 8C;

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the consolearmrest IX of FIG. 2 incorporating a mycelium component;

FIG. 9A is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the consolearmrest of FIG. 9 taken at line IXA-IXA;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method ofmaking a dual mycelium component;

FIG. 11 is a side elevational cross-sectional view of a molding devicefor making a dual layer mycelium component;

FIG. 11A is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the moldingdevice of FIG. 11 shown in the closed position;

FIG. 11B is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the moldingdevice of FIG. 11A shown in the open position;

FIG. 11C is an enlarged view of the area XIC of FIG. 11B;

FIG. 11D is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the first moldcomponent and third mold component of the molding device creating thedual mycelium component;

FIG. 11E is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the first andthird mold components of the molding device of FIG. 11D in the closedposition;

FIG. 11F is a side elevational cross-sectional view of the first andthird mold components of the molding device of FIG. 11D in the openposition;

FIG. 11G is an enlarged view of area XIG of FIG. 11F;

FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the door armrestXII of FIG. 2 incorporating a dual mycelium component;

FIG. 12A is an enlarged view of the door armrest of FIG. 12 taken atline XIIA-XIIA;

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method ofmaking a mycelium component with an object disposed therein;

FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a molding devicefor connecting an object to a mycelium structure;

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of the molding device of FIG. 14after making a mycelium component with an object disposed therein;

FIG. 14B is a top perspective view of the mycelium component of FIG. 14Awith an object disposed therein;

FIG. 14C is a top perspective cross-sectional view of the myceliumcomponent of FIG. 14B taken at line XIVC-XIVC;

FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method ofmaking a tubular mycelium component;

FIG. 15A is a top perspective view of an end of a tubular myceliumcomponent;

FIG. 15B is a top cross-sectional view of another embodiment of atubular mycelium component;

FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of makinga hardened mycelium component;

FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a myceliumcomponent prior to cutting;

FIG. 17A is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the mycelium matafter cutting into a mycelium component;

FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the heat shieldXVIII of FIG. 2 incorporating a mycelium component;

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view taken at line XVIIIA-XVIIIA;

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the headliner XIXof FIG. 2 incorporating a mycelium component;

FIG. 19A is a side cross-sectional view taken at line XIXA-XIXA;

FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method ofmaking a foamed mycelium component;

FIG. 21 is a side cross-sectional elevational view of one embodiment ofan agitating vessel used in making a foamed mycelium component; and

FIG. 22 is a side cross-sectional view of another agitating vessel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,”“left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivativesthereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 2. However, itis to be understood that the invention may assume various alternativeorientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It isalso to be understood that the specific devices and processesillustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the followingspecification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive conceptsdefined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and otherphysical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed hereinare not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly stateotherwise.

Fungus is an abundant fast-growing member of a large group of eukaryoticorganisms, which includes mushrooms. Collectively, fungi are classifiedin their own kingdom, separate from plants and animals. The FungiKingdom has been estimated to contain about 1.5 million species. Certainspecies of fungi have demonstrated growing capabilities along withpronounced physical properties making them a suitable substitute forsome components found in a variety of present day plastics and foams.Most species of fungi have a well developed mycelium component throughwhich the fungus communicates with its environment, and it is thisfungal component that has vast potential for incorporation into partsfor a variety of industries. Mycelium, as shown in FIG. 1, is made up ofmasses of hyphae, which are filamentous, tubular, thread-like structures(which can be anywhere from about 2 to about 10 μm in diameter) that cangrow to be several centimeters in length. Hyphae generally grow at thetips of individual hypha. The tip of a hypha is known as the apex andeach apex generally contains a set of aggregated vessels, which arecellular structures comprising proteins, lipids, and other such organicmolecules. Through a process known as branching, hyphae typically growand elongate, forming new tips along existing hyphae apices, or agrowing hypha can bifurcate at its apex, resulting in two parallelgrowing hyphae. These are some ways in which fungi grow towards theirfood sources. Most filamentous fungi grow in a polar fashion, wherebythe hyphae extend from their apices in one direction. Intercalaryextension also occurs in some species, whereby hyphal compartments belowthe apex expand longitudinally. Volume expansion also occurs in certainspecies during the development of mushroom stipes and other large fungalorgans. The extension of existing hyphae through polar apical growth,intercalary extension, volume extension, and bifurcation results in thedevelopment of a highly complex membrane of interweaving, continuouslybranching cell chains forming an interconnected mycelium network.

Mycelium is often referred to as the vegetative component of a fungus.Mycelium typically runs under the top few inches of soil with somespecies of fungi having mycelium components that can grow several inchesin a day. A mycelium mat, a structure made up of several differentmycelium networks, can cover thousands of acres. The network-likestructure of mycelium is used to absorb nutrients from the environmentfor nourishment of the associated fungus. Specifically, the hyphaesecrete enzymes, which contact potential food sources. These enzymesbreakdown the complex polymeric structure of the food source into basicmonomers which can be absorbed by the mycelium through diffusion oractive transport and then be digested by the fungus.

The Fungi Kingdom is often compared to the Plant Kingdom, but thedifferences between these Kingdoms are notable. The eukaryotic cells offungi have cell walls that contain glutens (such as β-1,3-glucan) andthe biopolymer chitin. Unlike fungi, the cell walls of plants containthe polysaccharide cellulose. Fungi are the only organisms known tocontain both of the structural molecules chitin and glucans in theircell walls. Chitin is a nitrogen-containing modified polysaccharide,which forms not only a principle component of fungi cell walls, but isalso a principle component in arthropod exoskeletons, such ascrustaceans, insects, and in the beaks of cephalopods like octopi andsquids.

As depicted below, chitin has an acetyl amine group on each monomer aswell as a hydroxyl group. Cellulose has two hydroxyl groups on eachmonomer, and it is the presence of the acetyl amine group in the chitinstructure that allows for increased hydrogen bonding between chitin andadjacent polymers as compared to cellulose. The ability to form morehydrogen bonds gives a chitin polymer matrix increased tensile strength.Mycelium aggressively branches through subterranean landscapes, therebycoming into direct contact with a myriad of organisms that could infector harm the associated fungus. Yet, mycelium flourishes in nature and isadequately protected by the formidable chitin molecules found in thefungi cell wall, even though the mycelium structure is only one cellwall thick.

Mycelium's ability to adapt, evolve, and flourish in a number ofenvironments make it an ideal resource for growing either in a lab or innatural conditions for the cultivation of the resource for industrialapplications. Fungi have a high degree of metabolic versatility thatallows them to draw on a diverse range of potential food sources forgrowth. Simple compounds, such as nitrate, ammonia, acetate, andethanol, can be metabolized by a fungus through its mycelium. Fungispecies exhibiting growth qualities and structural properties suitablefor the embodiments disclosed in the present application include, butare not limited to, Pleurotus djamor, Pleurotus eryngii, Pleurotusostreatus, Pleurotus ostreatus var. columbines, Grifola frondosa,Ganoderma lucidum, Ganoderma oregonense, Lentinula edodes, Agrocybeaegerita, or Coprinus Comatus. As noted above, the Fungi Kingdom iscomprised of millions of species, and a multitude of these species wouldbe suitable for use in the present invention.

Fungi's rapid growth rate is partially attributable to the fact thatfungi can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Both forms ofreproduction can produce spores. Asexual reproduction can occur throughthe production of vegetative spores known as conidia. Conidia areproduced on the ends of specialized hyphae called conidiophores.Mycelium fragmentation is another form of asexual reproduction. Sexualreproduction most often occurs when compatible fungi combine theirmycelia by fusing their hyphae together into an interconnected networkoften referred to as a mycelial mat. This fusion of hyphae is known asplasmogamy and it forms a heterokaryotic structure, which producesdikaryotic hyphae. Fungi's prolific reproduction systems and metabolicversatility make fungi a fast-growing and readily abundant resource.

Mycelium growth can be recreated by placing a fungal inoculum into agrowing medium. A fungal inoculum is made up of a fungal propagule,which can be any vegetative, sexual, or asexual structure of a fungusthat is capable of growing a new fungal colony. One skilled in the artwill recognize that there are several ways to grow and prepareparticular fungal strains and strain cultures are themselvescommercially available from sources such as www.fungi.com. Fragmentationof mycelium is a way to cultivate a suitable propagule. In order to growa mycelium network, the fungal inoculum should be placed in contact witha nutrient source which the fungus can digest. A suitable nutrientsource can be in the form of an aggregate and can contain severaldifferent nutrients, depending on the particular fungus sought to begrown. Such nutrients include fibrous materials, such as agriculturaland wood by-products. Specifically, the following exemplary nutrientsources can be used to feed a fungal inoculum for the growing ofmycelium: bamboo, brewery waste, cacao shells, cacti, coconut fiber,straws, fabrics, garden waste, hair, hemp, leaves manure, nut casings,seed hulls, rice, oils, paper products, textiles, and by-products ofcorn, cotton, coffee beans, soybeans, rice, straw, sugarcane, andtobacco. Other nutrient sources will be recognized by one skilled in theart.

A nutrient source containing lignin makes for an excellent source ofnutrients as well as provides the grown mycelium with desirablecharacteristic for forming a composite structure. Lignin is a biopolymergenerally found in the cell walls of plants. Lignin is known forproviding plants with structural support and is particularly known forits strengthening of wood. Lignin facilities plant support and strengthby its natural ability to crosslink with different plant polysaccharidesand cell wall components. It is the crosslinking ability of lignin thatprovides excellent mechanical strength. Fungi are able to digest ligninthrough the use of enzymes known as ligninases which allow the fungi tometabolize the lignin structures. Through this process, the ligninbecomes part of the mycelium structure and on a molecular level, is ablebring its crosslinking abilities and strength to the mycelium network.Wood by-products are a good nutrient source having lignin for use in thepresent invention.

As noted above, a fungal inoculum needs a nutrient source to grow. Oneway to get an inoculum in contact with a nutrient source is to preparethe inoculum by blending the fungal propagule into smaller piecessuitable for incorporation into a liquid or solvent. This creates aninoculum solution which has an even distribution of the propagulethroughout. The inoculum solution can be introduced into a liquidaggregate to form a wet slurry. Once in contact, the wet slurry isincubated in proper atmospheric conditions such that the inoculum canrapidly grow, feeding off the nutrients of the aggregate and forming anew fungal colony of fungal mycelia. Incubation under proper atmosphericconditions can provide a cultivatable product in less than two weeks.Proper atmospheric conditions generally include a damp dark locationthat is oxygen rich and having a temperature between 55-90 degreesFahrenheit. The humidity is generally kept high in a range from about20-100 percent. If reduced fruiting is desired, the temperature isgenerally kept above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The fungal inoculum or theaggregate can be combined with the other in dry particle form, or insolution.

Referring to FIG. 2, the reference numeral 20 generally designates avehicle incorporating mycelium-based components. The mycelium-basedcomponents may be implemented in a variety of parts, including, but notlimited to, door bolsters, door armrests, console armrests, and energyabsorbers, such as bumpers, headliners, dashes, seats, floors, heatshields, sound insulators, etc. The mycelium-based components offer alight-weight, cost-effective biodegradable alternative to traditionalnon-biodegradable vehicle parts. The processes by which themycelium-based components can be constructed are outlined in greaterdetail below. The mycelium-based components can be used in a widevariety of industries and applications. It will be understood that anyof the processes discussed below could be used to construct nearly anyof the parts discussed below, and that the parts discussed are to serveas examples only.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4-4C, one method of making a molded part 30includes forming a liquid aggregate 32 from a mixture of finely groundaggregate 34 and a liquid 36. A fungal inoculum 38 and the liquidaggregate 32 are mixed in step 39 to form a slurry 37 and are insertedinto a first mold 40 having a first mold cavity 41 (step 44). The firstmold cavity 41 is then sealed against a second complementary mold cavity42 located in a second mold 43 (step 46). Live mycelium 45 is grown fromthe fungal inoculum 38 to fill the first and second mold cavities 41, 42(step 48). The live mycelium 45 is cured by heating (step 50) toterminate further growth of the fungal inoculum 38, thereby developing aformed part 52 (step 54).

Referring again to FIGS. 4-4C, the formed part 52 is generally formed byan injection molding device that utilizes an injector 60 that injects amix of predetermined liquid aggregate 32 and the fungal inoculum 38through an internal injection port 62. The aggregate may be any of anumber of aggregates as listed above. The liquid aggregate 32 providesthe nutrient source needed by the fungal inoculum 38 to grow and mayalso act as a binder dispersed throughout the slurry 37 as it grows intothe live mycelium 45. In this application, the ground aggregate 34 iscontemplated to be of a size less than or equal to two inches. Theliquid 36 is then mixed with the finely ground aggregate 34 to create aliquid aggregate 32. It is contemplated that the viscosity of the liquidaggregate 32 may range from that of water to that of a very thicksludge. The liquid 36 may be an aqueous or oil-based solution. Theconsistency of the liquid aggregate 32 will change depending on thefinal desired qualities of the formed part 52. The liquid aggregate 32is then mixed with the fungal inoculum 38 to form a relativelyhomogenous slurry 37. After the slurry 37 has been thoroughly mixed, theslurry 37 is ready for injection molding.

To begin the injection molding process, the slurry 37 is placed into thefirst mold cavity 41 that is shaped to form the part desired. It iscontemplated that the first mold cavity 41 may include any of a varietyof constructions, including that of a clam shell injection mold, orhydraulic press injection mold. After the slurry 37 has been placed intothe first mold cavity 41, the second complementary mold cavity 42 issealed against the first mold cavity 41 to form a closed growth cavity64. The closed growth cavity 64 forms an incubator-like recess in whichmycelium 45 grows from the slurry 37. More specifically, the fungalinoculum 38 begins to feed on the nutrient source present in the slurry37. The nutrient source is primarily lignin. After a predeterminedlength of time, the mycelium 45 grows into the closed growth cavity 64,substantially filling all the voids and corners of the closed growthcavity 64. After a predetermined length of time, the mycelium 45 iscured. In one embodiment, the closed growth cavity 64 is heated toapproximately 125 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of one to 15 days toterminate further growth of the mycelium 45. The resulting formed part52 is substantially comprised of mycelium. The formed part 52 is removedfrom the first and second mold cavities 41, 42 and may be finished toprovide a smooth outside appearance and installed in a vehicle (FIG. 2).It will be understood that the curing process can be accomplished byraising or lowering the temperature in the mold cavities 41, 42.Alternatively, oxygen may be removed or carbon dioxide added, anelectrical current applied, or a curing chemical applied. Other possiblecuring methods are also contemplated.

In another embodiment, after the first mold cavity 41 and secondcomplementary mold cavity 42 are sealed to form the closed growth cavity64, pressure may be applied from a pressure hose 65 to the closed growthcavity 64 during growth of the mycelium 45. The pressure hose 65includes a pressure port 66 in fluid communication with the growthcavity 64. As will be understood by one having ordinary skill in theart, the pressure that is applied to the closed growth cavity 64 willnot be so high as to terminate the growth of the mycelium 45 during themycelium growth process. Rather, it is contemplated that theintroduction of pressurization may assist in forcing oxygen or otherpreferred gas into the slurry 37 and aid in the growth process.

In the method illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6-6C, a particulate additive70, such as a nanoparticle, is incorporated into the liquid aggregate 32prior to or during mixing of the liquid aggregate 32 with the fungalinoculum 38 (step 74) to form a slurry 75. The slurry 75 grows into livemycelium 77. As a result, during the mycelium growth cycle, ananoparticle/mycelium composite material 78 is formed (step 76) havingdifferent physical, chemical, and electrical characteristics than if theadditive 70 was not present. The nanoparticles 70 are mixed with theslurry 75, such that the resulting nanoparticle/mycelium compositematerial 78 has nanoparticles 70 that are evenly distributed throughoutthe matrix of the mixture (FIG. 2). It is contemplated that thenanoparticles 70 may increase or decrease various physical or chemicalproperties of the mixture. Specifically, the nanoparticles 70 mayincrease or decrease the electrical conductivity, resiliency, deflectivecapabilities, durability, rigidity, etc. Accordingly, the addition ofnanoparticles 70 can result in thinner wall sections in the compositeformed part 52 than can be formed with pure mycelium 45. Parts made withnanoparticles 70 effectively stiffen the mycelium formed part 52, suchthat the formed part 52 has a higher flex modulus and a higher impactstrength. Some such nanoparticles 70 include nanoclay and nanocarbonfiber. It is also contemplated that the addition of metallicnanoparticles 70 may increase the conductivity of electricity throughthe formed part 52. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the additivecould be a variety of different additives or a combination of severaladditives. A plasticizer that aids in forming a rigid formed part aftertermination of the mycelium growth may also be utilized.

One example of a suitable plasticizer is a soluble polymer that isincorporated into the slurry. Water soluble plastic films are solublepolymers which have physical properties that are similar to that ofpolymers found in blown plastic films. Water soluble plastic films candissolve entirely when placed in contact with a sufficient amount ofliquid. Some water soluble films also have the ability to reconstituteafter they have been dissolved when the liquid is evaporated. Currently,water soluble polymers have various uses in a range of industries fromwater-soluble packaging, barrier films, graphics film, medical supplies,and others.

Referring now to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5A, the solublepolymer (step 80) is combined with a liquid (step 36) and an aggregate(step 34) to form a liquid aggregate (step 81) including a solution ofpolymer particles. The concentration of polymer particles in thesolution will vary depending on the amount of liquid versus the amountof soluble polymer used. In the case of a water soluble plastic film,the film can be broken-down in to smaller parts or pulverized todecrease the dissolving time. The resulting solution of polymerparticles generally has the viscosity of water. Thus, the solution issuitable for injection molding procedures. The solution of polymerparticles is then combined with a fungal inoculum (step 38) to form aslurry (step 82). The resulting mixture can then be placed in anenclosure such as an open mold or closed mold (step 83). The enclosurecan then be placed in an environment suitable for growing the mycelium(step 84). As the hyphae grow (step 84), they will grow through andaround the nutrients of the aggregate and the polymer particles, formingbonds with the particles which will remain in the final plasticizedstructure. Specifically, as the mycelium and plastic mixture grows, thechitin of the mycelium bonds with the soluble plastic polymer particlesso as to fully and evenly incorporate the polymer particles into theresulting structure. The mixture of particles, mycelium and aggregatecan also be injection or compression molded, sprayed onto a substrate bya spraying mechanism or placed into a suitable receptacle to form asheet of material where it can grow and then be further processed byknown means. The final structure will retain properties of the polymersuch as the polymer's rigidity and strength. After the mixture hassufficiently grown (step 84), the part is cured (step 86) to end thegrowing cycle and then later formed (step 88) to the desired shape byknown means as discussed below. The structure may be cured simply byallowing the plasticizer to harden which can effectively terminatemycelium growth. The resulting structure has significant rigidity due tothe plastic polymer incorporated into the structure and varying amountsof polymer can be used in its creation to alter the properties of thestructure. This allows for the finished composite part to be athin-walled structure that does not require the density or size that asimilar part would need to achieve a like rigidity. As the mycelium andwater soluble plastic are biodegradable, the resulting part formed fromthe mycelium and plastic mixture is a rigid, durable and biodegradablepart.

Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8A-9A, another method of making a formedpart includes providing an aggregate (step 34) and mixing the aggregatewith a fluid (step 36) to create a liquid aggregate (step 32). A fungalinoculum is provided (step 38) and mixed with the liquid aggregate (step39) to create a mixed slurry 90. The slurry 90 is placed into a moldcavity 92 (step 93) and a coverstock 94 is placed over the mold cavity92 (step 95), as disclosed above in similar processes. It iscontemplated that a top mold 96 may be placed over the mold cavity 92(FIG. 8A), wherein the top mold 96 holds the coverstock 94 in place overthe mold cavity 92 during cellular growth of the fungal inoculum intolive mycelium 95. As shown in FIG. 8B, the mycelium 95 is allowed togrow over a predetermined length of time until the mycelium hasphysically engaged with an underside of the coverstock 94 (step 96). Itis contemplated that the coverstock 94 may include an engagement side 98having apertures or a porous surface area that aids the physical bondbetween the mycelium 95 and the coverstock 94. A vast array ofinterconnected hyphae of the live mycelium 95 literally grows into theengagement side 98, thereby physically coupling or connecting with thecoverstock 94. As a result of the physical connection between themycelium 95 and the coverstock 94, an adhesive is not required.Accordingly, a manufacturing step is eliminated. Other constructionsthat create an extended surface area on the engagement side 98 of thecoverstock 94 for the mycelium 95 to latch onto are also contemplated.After the mycelium 95 has grown into secure connection with theengagement side 98 of the coverstock 94, heat is applied to the moldcavity 92 to terminate further growth of the mycelium 95 (step 99). Thefinished part 100 is then removed from the mold cavity 92 and is readyfor further finishing (step 102) or installation into a vehicle (FIGS. 9and 9A). In another embodiment, it is contemplated that the coverstock94 may be heat-welded to the mycelium 95 or stretched over the mycelium95.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11-11G, another embodiment of making aformed part includes preparing an aggregate (step 112) and a fluid (step113) that are particularly suited for making a high density structuralcomponent and mixing the aggregate with a liquid (step 114). Theresulting liquid aggregate (step 114) that is formed is mixed with afungal inoculum (step 118) to form a slurry 120 (step 122) designed tocreate a dense, rigid, and structurally sound substrate. The slurry 120is then placed into a first mold cavity 124 (step 126). A second moldcavity 128 is closed over the first mold cavity 124 (step 128) and thefungal inoculum is allowed to grow into a mycelium substrate 130 (step132). The humidity level is generally maintained at a level between 20and 100 percent during growth of the mycelium. In addition, thetemperature is maintained between 55 degrees Fahrenheit and 90 degreesFahrenheit. After the mycelium substrate 130 has completely filled avoid cavity 134 formed by the first and second mold cavities 124, 128,the mycelium substrate 130 is cured, such as by applying heat (step 136)to a temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of one to 15days, to terminate further growth of the mycelium. After the myceliumsubstrate 130 is cured, the mycelium substrate 130 formation is complete(step 138).

Referring again to FIGS. 10 and 11-11G, at the same time or after themycelium substrate 130 formation is occurring, an aggregate (step 140)and a liquid (step 142) that are specifically adapted for making afoam-like resilient mycelium structure are mixed to form a liquidaggregate (step 146). A fungal inoculum is introduced (step 148) that isdesigned for creating a foam-like final mycelium product and mixed withthe liquid aggregate to form a slurry 149 (step 150). The second moldcavity 128 is removed from the first mold cavity 124 over the finishedmycelium substrate 130. The slurry 149 is placed into the first moldcavity 124 over the mycelium substrate 130 (step 151). A third moldcavity 152 is then closed over the first mold cavity 124 (step 153) andthe fungal inoculum adapted to make foam-like mycelium 155 is allowed togrow. A finished composite part 160 is formed and the part 160 is curedby heat or other means (step 162), as discussed above in previousembodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the foam grows into anengagement side 154 of a coverstock 156 that is applied over themycelium 155 (step 157) until the void between the third mold cavity 152and the mycelium substrate 130 is completely filled by the growingfoam-like mycelium 155 (step 159). The third mold cavity 152 is thenremoved and the finished part 160 is removed from the first mold cavity124 for further finishing and trim work (step 164) or placement in avehicle, such as that shown in FIG. 2. A dual mycelium component formedby this process is illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 12A.

Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14-14C, in another embodiment, an object,such as a pin 180, as shown, or a hinge, fastener, etc., is placed intoa mold 182 during growth of the mycelium. An aggregate is introduced(step 184) and a fluid is introduced (step 186) to form a liquidaggregate (step 190), and subsequently, a fungal inoculum (step 188) isadded to the liquid aggregate and mixed to form a slurry (step 191). Theslurry is placed into a first mold cavity 192 (step 193). At the sametime, the pin 180 that is to be molded into the live mycelium is alsoinserted into the first mold cavity 192 (step 195). A second mold cavity194 is closed over the first mold cavity 192 (step 196) and myceliumgrowth occurs (step 198), such that the mycelium hyphae grow into andbond with the item that is placed into the mold 182. After the myceliumgrowth has completely filled the mold cavity formed between the firstand second mold cavities 192, 194, the mycelium is cured (step 200) toterminate further mycelium growth and a finished part 201 is removed(step 202). The part 201 may then be further processed or installed intoa vehicle, such as that shown in FIG. 2.

Referring now to FIGS. 15-15B, a hardened tubular structure 220 is madeby preparing an aggregate (step 222) and preparing a liquid (step 224)and mixing the aggregate with the liquid to create a liquid aggregate(step 226). A fungal inoculum is introduced (step 228) and mixed withthe liquid aggregate to form a slurry (step 230). The slurry is placedinto a mold cavity (step 232) and mycelium is allowed to grow (step 234)into a predetermined form. After the mycelium has grown into thepredetermined form, the live mycelium is rolled into a tube-likestructure (step 236) while still in the growth cycle forming multiplelayers of mycelium (FIG. 15A). The mycelium is allowed to further growinto a tube-like form (step 238) with the hyphae extending from themycelium, becoming interwoven in the center of the cylinder or tube. Itis contemplated that the tube could have a diameter as large as threefeet or as small as 0.125 inches. After the tube has been cured byheating or other means (step 239), a tubular finished part 240 is formed(step 242) and prepared for installation in a vehicle. The tubularfinished part 240 includes a structure having different densities on anoutside exterior portion 244 of the tube and an interior portion 246 ofthe tubular finished part 240. During growth of the live mycelium mat,the mycelium mat is rolled to form a lap joint 248 between the interiorportion 246 of the tubular finished part 240 and the exterior portion244 of the tube. It is contemplated that the lap joint 248 will bemaintained as the hyphae on the interior portion 246 of the tubularfinished part 240 grow and intertwine.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15B, a tubular finished part 250is rolled several times prior to curing to create an interior portion252 of the tubular finished part 250 with mixed densities throughout. Asthe tubular finished parts 240, 250 grow, the hyphae intertwine andfuse, creating a strong bone-like structure that, after curing, are usedas structural supports in a variety of applications. The tubularfinished part 250 may be rolled several times to form a larger tubularstructure before a lap joint 254 is formed. Once again, it will beunderstood that the hyphae grow into one another in this rolled formuntil the curing process, at which time the tubular finished part 250formed by the rolled mycelium is heated to a temperature greater than150 degrees Fahrenheit to form a hardened tubular structure component.

The mycelium mat will generally be grown to a thickness of betweenapproximately 0.125 inches and 2.0 inches, according to one embodiment.It is contemplated that the mycelium mat will be grown for at least oneto 15 days, and it is also contemplated that an oxygen rich gas supplymay be given to the mycelium mat to stimulate growth. The aggregate maybe formed from any of the aggregates mentioned above, but it iscontemplated that an aggregate formed from coconut, rice, corn, or amixture thereof may be ideal in creating the mycelium mat, inparticular, a mycelium mat having long intertwining hyphae.

The tubular structure will be cured by heating the tubular structure tothe temperature of at least 150 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of atleast one day. In addition, it is contemplated that moisture may beadded to the tubular structure for a predetermined length of time to aidin rolling in forming the mycelium structure prior to the curingprocess. Subsequently, when the tubular structure is cured, much or mostof the moisture is removed from the rolled mycelium mat to form thehardened tubular finished parts 240, 250. The hardened tubular finishedparts 240, 250 are generally rods formed from mycelium.

In another embodiment, the hardened structure formed by this process isnot rolled, but rather layered to form a substantially rigid structurehaving relatively flat sides. Any number of shapes can be made with thepliable living mycelium mat during the growth cycle. However, the shapeshould be formed during the mycelium growth so that the hyphae weaveduring the growth cycle, providing a strong unified core. As a result,after curing of the hardened elongate structure, much of the strength ofthe hardened elongate structure can be obtained by the interwoven hyphaein the center of the hardened elongate structure.

Referring now to FIG. 16, it is also contemplated that the mycelium matgrown (step 260) in any of the several methods described above may beplaced in a super-drying device. For example, the elongate partmentioned above could be placed in the super-drying device, which dryheats the rolled mycelium mat into the hardened tubular structure. Themycelium mat is then cured (step 262). The mycelium mat may then bemoistened (step 264) to any saturation level, including 100 percentsaturation, or super-dried directly (step 266). Super-drying the tubularstructure causes increased rigidity and strength in the mycelium matduring the curing process. The super-drying device converts lignin thathas not been digested by the mycelium during curing from a thermoplasticcondition to a thermoset condition which substantially rigidifies theproduct. It is also contemplated that the curing process may beeliminated completely when the super-drying process is used to hardenthe tubular structure. The cured mycelium mat may be super-dried bydehumidification, kiln-drying, or any other procedure for removingmoisture, strengthening, and hardening the subject material. Thesuper-drying process lasts for at least one day in which the myceliummat is subjected to temperatures of at least 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Thesuper-dried mycelium mat achieves a greater hardness as a result of alow moisture content of between 5 and 25 percent. In another embodiment,the moisture content is lowered to less than one percent.

After the tubular structure has been super-dried, formed, and hardened,the tubular structure may be used in any of a variety of applications,including in a vehicle as a load supporting member. The tubularstructure may also be used in construction, manufacturing, or any of avariety of other industries.

Referring now to FIGS. 17-19A, another method of making a vehicle partincludes growing a live mycelium mat 268 by one of the processesdescribed above and cutting the mycelium mat 268. The mycelium mat 268is cured to terminate mycelium growth. The mycelium mat 268 is then cutinto a single structural part 270 for use in a vehicle. The actual shapeand size of the mycelium mat is determined based on the desireddimensions of the final cut part 270. It is contemplated that severalstructural parts 270 may be developed from one large mycelium mat 268.

The mycelium mat 268 may be any of a number of shapes and sizes inheight, width, and depth, but is intended to be of a size that can bereadily cut by standard cutting machines in the manufacturing industry.The single structural part may be cut using a laser cutter, watercutter, CNC machine, etc. In addition, it is contemplated that after themycelium mat 268 has been cut into a single structural part 270, thepart 270 may be covered with a laminate to maintain its shape, as wellas maintain the moisture percentage of the single structural part 270.

To achieve a cuttable mycelium mat 268, a finely ground aggregate willgenerally be used. Although any of the aggregates listed above may beappropriate, it is generally contemplated that the aggregate will be afinely ground aggregate from the group consisting of coconut, rice,corn, cotton, and by-products thereof. In addition, it is contemplatedthat the mycelium mat 268 will be grown for at least one day andpossibly as many as 15 days. An oxygen rich gas may be supplied to themycelium mat during the growth cycle to facilitate faster growth andthicker development. In addition, to cure the mycelium mat, the myceliummat will be heated to a temperature of at least 150 degrees Fahrenheitfor one day. Moisture may be applied to the mycelium mat on one orseveral occasions for a predetermined length of time. Subsequently, themycelium mat will be heated to remove substantially all of the moisturegained during the application of moisture. Parts such as the heat shield272 (FIGS. 18 and 18A) and the headliner part (FIGS. 19 and 19A) can bemade by cutting the mycelium mat, as disclosed above.

The mycelium and aggregate slurry discussed above may also be treatedwith a foaming agent or foaming device that is capable of introducing agas to the mycelium slurry which facilitates the growth of the hyphaenetwork. Oxygen rich environments are ideal for hyphae development asfungus cells exchange gases directly with their atmosphere. Unlikephotosynthetic plants, fungi breathe in oxygen and release carbondioxide.

Referring now to FIGS. 20-22, a foamed mycelium product is made byplacing the slurry of mycelium into a reaction vessel 290 (step 280).The reaction vessel 290 may be a foam production chamber known in theart, according to one embodiment, but other known reaction vessels willwork, according to other embodiments. Typically, the reaction vessel 290is generally in the form of a foam production chamber (FIGS. 21-22)having an agitation device 292, which is used to introduce a select gasinto a mycelium slurry 294. The agitation device 292 can be a blendingmechanism (FIG. 21), an external pump for direct injection of a gas intothe reaction vessel 290 (FIG. 22), a controlled flow device to stir theslurry, or any other such agitation device known in the art forintroducing a gas to a medium (step 282). As noted above, oxygen richenvironments promote the growth of mycelium, so oxygen enriched gasesare a good source of oxygen to use. Pure or free oxygen-containing gasessuch as air may also be used. Pure oxygen gases may also be diluted withinert materials such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide and other such gasesto control the growth. The gases can be introduced under pressure asthrough an external pump, but may also be introduced by moderate toaggressive agitation of the slurry (step 282). Gases can also beintroduced through a blowing agent, an effervescent substrate, or anyother foaming process known in the art.

As shown in FIG. 20, the reaction vessel 290 includes an agitationdevice 292, which, in this embodiment, is a stirring mechanism. As theagitation device 292 agitates or stirs the slurry 294 (step 282), gases,indicated by lines A and B, are introduced to the slurry 294 through gasportals 296, 298. As the slurry 294 circulates, indicated by arrows E,the gases A and B become incorporated with the slurry 294 in the form ofbubbles 300. The gases A and B can be the same or different gases, buttypically produce bubbles 300 containing free oxygen that the slurry 294will envelope and use for mycelium growth (step 284). As shown, thereaction vessel 290 may further include chambers 302 that help agitatethe slurry 294 as it circulates and increase gas introduction. After themycelium is allowed to begin its growth cycle, an optional secondagitation step may occur further promoting gas bubble incorporation intothe slurry and thereby further promoting mycelium growth. The myceliumcomponent is then cured (step 286) and the part is finished (step 288)for insertion into a vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 22, the reaction vessel 290 can include an agitationdevice 292 in the form of an external pump. The pump introducespressurized gas, indicated by lines F and G, into the slurry 294, suchthat bubbles 300 form in the slurry 294, creating a foaming effect.Gases, indicated by lines C and D, can also be introduced to the slurry294 through gas portals 296, 298. As the slurry 294 grows into myceliumin the presence of the bubbles 300, a lightweight and less densemycelium composite develops. The oxygen in the gases promotes themycelium growth and hyphae interconnection as the hyphae will grow intothe bubbles 300, forming bonds with adjacent hyphae. The promoted hyphaegrowth results in a composite with enhanced rigidity, which is alsolightweight due to the foaming process which creates cavities formed bythe bubbles 300 of gas which are incorporated in the final structure.Specifically, the resulting foam structure can be up to 50 percentlighter than a similar foamed structure produced using standard urethanetechniques. Also, the resulting foamed structure is generally at leastfive percent lighter than a similar structure made from mycelium that isnot foamed.

The various mycelium components discussed above, and the methods formaking those components, provide strong parts adapted for use invehicles, both in aesthetic and structural capacities. The introductionof mycelium creates a biodegradable part that eliminates the need foradhesive in several instances, and reduces costs by eliminatingmanufacturing steps. The mycelium components can be grown into variousshapes and sizes and include varying densities, depending on theaggregate used, the temperature during the growth cycle, and the totalgrowth duration.

It will be understood that any of the processes or steps within thoseprocesses may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps toform structures within the scope of the present invention. The exemplarystructures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposesand are not to be construed as limiting.

It is to be understood that variations and modifications can be made onthe aforementioned structures and methods without departing from theconcepts of the present invention, and further it is to be understoodthat such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claimsunless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

1. A method of making a molded part, comprising: forming a liquidaggregate; inserting a fungal inoculum and the liquid aggregate into amold cavity; inserting a portion of an object into the mold cavity;growing the fungal inoculum into live mycelium that operably coupleswith the object; and heating the mycelium to terminate further growthand develop a composite part made of mycelium and the object.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the step of inserting a portion of an objectfurther comprises: inserting a portion of one of a hinge assembly, latchassembly, and fastener assembly into the mold cavity.
 3. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising: forming apertures in the object throughwhich the mycelium grows.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:forming a porous surface area on the portion of the object in the moldcavity.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: pressurizing themold cavity.
 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: constructingthe object from one of plastic and metal.
 7. A method of making a moldedpart, comprising: applying a fungal inoculum and an aggregate to a moldcavity; inserting a portion of an object into the mold cavity; growinglive mycelium to fill the mold cavity and operably couple with theobject; and curing the live mycelium to terminate further growth anddevelop a formed component.
 8. The method of claim 7, furthercomprising: forming a porous surface area on the portion of the objectin the mold cavity.
 9. The method of claim 7, further comprising:constructing the object from one of plastic and metal.
 10. The method ofclaim 7, wherein the step of forming a liquid aggregate furthercomprises: inserting a plasticizer into the mold cavity.
 11. The methodof claim 7, wherein the step of forming a liquid aggregate furthercomprises: inserting nanoparticles into the mold cavity.
 12. The methodof claim 7, further comprising: injecting the fungal inoculum andaggregate through an injection port disposed in the first mold cavity.13. The method of claim 7, further comprising: forming apertures in theobject through which the live mycelium grows.
 14. A vehicle partcomprising: an object having a first coupled portion and a secondexposed portion; and a cured mycelium structure that has grown over thefirst coupled portion during a growth period to create a physicalcoupling of the mycelium structure to the object.
 15. The vehicle partof claim 14, wherein the first coupled portion includes a porous surfacearea to which the cured mycelium structure is physically coupled. 16.The vehicle part of claim 14, wherein the object is a mechanical device,and wherein the second exposed portion is adapted to operably couple theobject to a vehicle.
 17. The vehicle part of claim 14, wherein the firstcoupled portion includes apertures to which the cured mycelium structureis physically coupled.
 18. The vehicle part of claim 14, furthercomprising: a coverstock applied to at least a portion of the curedmycelium structure.